Facilitating quality of service and security via functional classification of devices in networks

ABSTRACT

Quality of service and security are facilitated via functional classification of devices within a network. One method includes receiving, by a first device, notification information of a presence of a second device among the devices of the network, wherein the devices are configured to communicate information about events associated with respective operations of the devices; and generating, by the first device, first information indicative of an identity of and a functional classification of a function of the second device. The method also includes initiating, by the first device to a controller within the network, a transmission of second information for association of third information indicative of the functional classification of the function of the second device with fourth information generated by the second device. The functional classification of the function of the second device is associated with potential impact of failure of the second device.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This patent application is a continuation of, and claims priority to,U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/512,029 (now U.S. Pat. No.9,544,395), filed on Oct. 10, 2014, and entitled “FACILITATING QUALITYOF SERVICE AND SECURITY VIA FUNCTIONAL CLASSIFICATION OF DEVICES INNETWORKS”. The entirety of the foregoing application is herebyincorporated by reference herein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The subject disclosure relates generally to communication networks, andspecifically to facilitating quality of service (QoS) and security viafunctional classification of devices in networks.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates an example block diagram of a system in which QoS andsecurity via functional classification of devices in M2M networks can befacilitated in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIG. 2 illustrates an example diagram of aspects of the M2M network ofFIG. 1 in accordance with one or more embodiments described herein.

FIG. 3 illustrates an example block diagram of the functionalclassification component of FIG. 1 that can facilitate QoS and securityvia functional classification of devices in M2M networks in accordancewith one or more embodiments.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example diagram of a functional classificationprocess performed by the functional classification device of FIG. 3 fora device in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIG. 5 illustrates an example diagram of functional classificationlevels assigned by the functional classification device of FIG. 3 andcorresponding potential impacts of failure of the functions of devicesin accordance with one or more embodiments described herein.

FIGS. 6-9 illustrate examples of diagrams detailing functions of devicesperforming in different environments and corresponding impacts offailure to perform device function in accordance with one or moreembodiments described herein.

FIG. 10 illustrates an example block diagram of a device of FIG. 1 in anM2M network for which QoS and security can be facilitated via functionalclassification in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIG. 11 illustrates an example block diagram of data storage of thedevice of FIG. 10 in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIG. 12 illustrates an example block diagram of the functionalclassification security and quality of service control (FCSQOSC) deviceof FIG. 1 that can facilitate QoS and security via functionalclassification of devices in the M2M network of FIG. 1 in accordancewith one or more embodiments.

FIG. 13 illustrates an example block diagram of data storage of theFCSQOSC device of FIG. 12 in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIG. 14 illustrates an example block diagram of the controller device ofFIG. 1 that can facilitate QoS and security via functionalclassification of devices in M2M networks in accordance with one or moreembodiments.

FIG. 15 illustrates an example schematic diagram of the provisioning ofsecurity and QoS in the M2M network of FIG. 1 in accordance with one ormore embodiments described herein.

FIGS. 16-20 illustrate example flowcharts of methods that facilitate QoSand security via functional classification of devices in M2M networks inaccordance with one or more embodiments.

FIG. 21 illustrates a block diagram of a computer operable to facilitateQoS and security via functional classification of devices in M2Mnetworks in accordance with one or more embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

One or more embodiments are described with reference to the drawings,wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elementsthroughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation,numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thoroughunderstanding of the various embodiments. It is evident, however, thatthe various embodiments can be practiced without these specific details(and without applying to any particular networked environment orstandard).

As used in this application, in some embodiments, the terms “component,”“system” and the like are intended to refer to, or include, acomputer-related entity or an entity related to an operational apparatuswith one or more specific functionalities, wherein the entity can beeither hardware, a combination of hardware and software, software, orsoftware in execution. As an example, a component may be, but is notlimited to being, a process running on a processor, a processor, anobject, an executable, a thread of execution, computer-executableinstructions, a program, and/or a computer. By way of illustration andnot limitation, both an application running on a server and the servercan be a component.

One or more components may reside within a process and/or thread ofexecution and a component may be localized on one computer and/ordistributed between two or more computers. In addition, these componentscan execute from various computer readable media having various datastructures stored thereon. The components may communicate via localand/or remote processes such as in accordance with a signal having oneor more data packets (e.g., data from one component interacting withanother component in a local system, distributed system, and/or across anetwork such as the Internet with other systems via the signal). Asanother example, a component can be an apparatus with specificfunctionality provided by mechanical parts operated by electric orelectronic circuitry, which is operated by a software application orfirmware application executed by a processor, wherein the processor canbe internal or external to the apparatus and executes at least a part ofthe software or firmware application. As yet another example, acomponent can be an apparatus that provides specific functionalitythrough electronic components without mechanical parts, the electroniccomponents can include a processor therein to execute software orfirmware that confers at least in part the functionality of theelectronic components. While various components have been illustrated asseparate components, it will be appreciated that multiple components canbe implemented as a single component, or a single component can beimplemented as multiple components, without departing from exampleembodiments.

Further, the various embodiments can be implemented as a method,apparatus or article of manufacture using standard programming and/orengineering techniques to produce software, firmware, hardware or anycombination thereof to control a computer to implement the disclosedsubject matter. The term “article of manufacture” as used herein isintended to encompass a computer program accessible from anycomputer-readable device or computer-readable storage/communicationsmedia. For example, computer readable storage media can include, but arenot limited to, magnetic storage devices (e.g., hard disk, floppy disk,magnetic strips), optical disks (e.g., compact disk (CD), digitalversatile disk (DVD)), smart cards, and flash memory devices (e.g.,card, stick, key drive). Of course, those skilled in the art willrecognize many modifications can be made to this configuration withoutdeparting from the scope or spirit of the various embodiments.

In addition, the words “example” and “exemplary” are used herein to meanserving as an instance or illustration. Any embodiment or designdescribed herein as “example” or “exemplary” is not necessarily to beconstrued as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments ordesigns. Rather, use of the word example or exemplary is intended topresent concepts in a concrete fashion. As used in this application, theterm “or” is intended to mean an inclusive “or” rather than an exclusive“or”. That is, unless specified otherwise or clear from context, “Xemploys A or B” is intended to mean any of the natural inclusivepermutations. That is, if X employs A; X employs B; or X employs both Aand B, then “X employs A or B” is satisfied under any of the foregoinginstances. In addition, the articles “a” and “an” as used in thisapplication and the appended claims should generally be construed tomean “one or more” unless specified otherwise or clear from context tobe directed to a singular form.

Moreover, terms such as “mobile device equipment,” “mobile station,”“mobile,” subscriber station,” “access terminal,” “terminal,” “handset,”“mobile device” (and/or terms representing similar terminology) canrefer to a wireless device utilized by a subscriber or mobile device ofa wireless communication service to receive or convey data, control,voice, video, sound, gaming or substantially any data-stream orsignaling-stream. The foregoing terms are utilized interchangeablyherein and with reference to the related drawings. Likewise, the terms“access point (AP),” “Base Station (BS),” BS transceiver, BS device,cell site, cell site device, “Node B (NB),” “evolved Node B (eNode B),”“home Node B (HNB)” and the like, are utilized interchangeably in theapplication, and refer to a wireless network component or appliance thattransmits and/or receives data, control, voice, video, sound, gaming orsubstantially any data-stream or signaling-stream from one or moresubscriber stations. Data and signaling streams can be packetized orframe-based flows.

Furthermore, the terms “device,” “mobile device,” “subscriber,”“customer,” “consumer,” “entity” and the like are employedinterchangeably throughout, unless context warrants particulardistinctions among the terms. It should be appreciated that such termscan refer to human entities or automated components supported throughartificial intelligence (e.g., a capacity to make inference based oncomplex mathematical formalisms), which can provide simulated vision,sound recognition and so forth.

Embodiments described herein can be exploited in substantially anywireless communication technology, including, but not limited to,wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi), global system for mobile communications(GSM), universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS), worldwideinteroperability for microwave access (WiMAX), enhanced general packetradio service (enhanced GPRS), third generation partnership project(3GPP) long term evolution (LTE), third generation partnership project 2(3GPP2) ultra mobile broadband (UMB), high speed packet access (HSPA),Zigbee and other 802.XX wireless technologies and/or legacytelecommunication technologies. Further, the terms “femto” and “femtocell” are used interchangeably, and the terms “macro” and “macro cell”are used interchangeably.

The convergence of developments for machine technology andcommunications has given rise to M2M networks in which wireless andwired systems are employed to provide communication between devices, ormachines, of the same type or of different types. As used herein, theterm “machine-to-machine,” or “M2M” can mean a network in which devicesare configured to communicate information about events associated withrespective operations of the devices. For example, a device maycommunicate information about whether the device has detected an opendoor, whether heart activity is normal, whether water has been sensed,the temperature in an environment or the like. M2M networks are foundacross many domains (e.g., smart power grids, vehicular telematics,information management, medical/health services, digital home). In manyM2M networks, unique security challenges abound based on the combinationof devices having an array of inexpensive sensors and the differenttypes of communication allowed in these environments. For example, theuse of sensors, mobile communications, wireless communications,short-range networks and/or gateways as enablers to M2M applications andnetworks presents unique security challenges.

Systems and methods are needed for assessing overall M2M networksecurity; identifying and/or applying selected security and/or QoScontrols and the same to improve the likelihood that important datagenerated by selected devices continues to be available and/oraccessible and/or reliable during times of network saturation (e.g.,post-natural disaster).

Embodiments described herein include systems, methods, apparatus and/orcomputer-readable storage media facilitating QoS and security viafunctional classification of devices in M2M networks. In one embodiment,a method includes: receiving, by a first device of devices of a network,and the first device including a processor, notification information ofa presence of a second device among the devices of the network, whereinthe devices are configured to communicate information about eventsassociated with respective operations of the devices. The method alsoincludes: generating, by the first device, first information indicativeof an identity of the second device and a functional classificationassociated with a function of the second device; and initiating, by thefirst device to a controller device within the network, a transmissionof second information for association of third information indicative ofthe functional classification of the function of the second device withdata generated by the second device.

In another embodiment, an apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes:a processor; and a memory that stores executable instructions that, whenexecuted by the processor, facilitate performance of operations. Theoperations include determining logic information associated with afunction of a device of a network, wherein the device is configured tocommunicate information about events associated with respectiveoperations of the device; determining a potential impact of failure ofthe device to perform the function; and determining security controlinformation for the device based on the logic information and thepotential impact of the failure.

In another embodiment, an apparatus includes: a processor; and a memorythat stores executable instructions that, when executed by theprocessor, facilitate performance of operations. The operations includereceiving notification information of a presence of a device amongdevices within a network, wherein the devices are configured tocommunicate information about events associated with respectiveoperations of the devices. The operations can also include receivingfirst information indicative of an identity of the device and afunctional classification of a function of the device. The operationscan also include initiating, to a controller device within the network,a transmission of second information for association of thirdinformation indicative of the functional classification of the functionof the device with data generated by the device.

FIG. 1 illustrates an example block diagram of a system in which QoS andsecurity via functional classification of devices in M2M networks can befacilitated in accordance with one or more embodiments. In variousembodiments, as described in greater detail below, system 100 can beemployed to facilitate assessment of the overall M2M network security;identify applicable security controls; and/or dynamically apply securitycontrols and network QoS to assure that functions that are of a higherfunctional classification (e.g., life safety or critical functionalclassification) receive the protection and/or QoS to improve thelikelihood that data generated in connection with these functions willbe available and/or accessible notwithstanding network saturation thatmay occur (such as during times of natural disaster). During periods ofnetwork resource saturation (e.g., post-natural disaster), there is aneed to provide network resource priority to M2M devices that have ahigher functional classification (e.g., life safety functionalclassification) then those that are less sensitive. A solution is toidentify the functional classifications of the devices in the networksby applying the M2M security framework taking into account businesslogic, device data and potential impact of failure of the function ofthe device. Functional classifications can include, but are not limitedto, non-sensitive, sensitive, critical and life safety. In embodiments,system 100 can employ functional classification to automatically deployappropriate levels of security controls and/or QoS throughout thenetwork by annotating data generated by particular devices withassociated functional classifications. The functional classificationsthen are used to determine the appropriate level of security controland/or QoS with which to handle the data from the devices.

FIG. 2 illustrates an example diagram of aspects of the M2M network ofFIG. 1 in accordance with one or more embodiments described herein. Anexample M2M network 200 is shown. M2M network 200 can include manydifferent domains (e.g., smart power grid, vehicular telematics,information management, medical/health services, digital home),facilitate different applications (e.g., digital home application,connected car application, industrial applications, healthcareapplications), and/or include numerous different communications networks(e.g., GSM, CDMA, LTE, satellite networks) and/or M2M domains (shortrange networks and/or connected devices (e.g., sensors, actuators). Assuch, devices in M2M network 200 can operate in any of the domains orcommunications networks and/or perform any number of differentoperations according to any of the applications shown in FIG. 2. Withreference to FIG. 1, devices 106, 108, 109, 110, 112, controller device114 and/or FCSQOSC device 102 can be included in M2M network 200. Insome embodiments, functional classification device 104 can also beincluded in M2M network 200.

Turning back to FIG. 1, system 100 includes FCSQOSC device 102,functional classification device 104, devices 106, 108, 109. 110, 112and/or controller device 114. In various embodiments, one or more ofFCSQOSC device 102, functional classification device 104, devices 106,108, 109. 110, 112 and/or controller device 114 can be electricallyand/or communicatively coupled to one another to perform one or morefunctions of system 100. While, in the embodiment shown, functionalclassification device 104 is included in system 100, functionalclassification device 104 need not be included in the M2M network inwhich FCSQOSC device 102, controller device 114 and/or one or more ofdevices 106, 108, 109, 110, 112 are within. By contrast, in someembodiments, functional classification device 104 can be communicativelycoupled to one or more of devices 106, 108, 109, 110, 112 and/or FCSQOSCdevice 102 while being associated with a network other than an M2Mnetwork.

Turning first to the devices in system 100, devices 106, 108, 109. 110,112 can be any number of different types configured to transmit and/orreceive information within an M2M network. By way of example, but notlimitation, device 106 can be a connected car device providingconnectivity between one or more connected cars; devices 108, 109 can bedigital home devices providing sensing, monitoring, home security,appliance control, temperature control and/or lighting control; device110 can be a smart grid device that can monitor and/or control a smartgrid or component of a smart grid; and/or device 112 can be a healthcaredevice (e.g., defibrillator) that can provide healthcare treatment to apatient or other entity. As such, devices 106, 108, 109, 110, 112 can besensors, actuators, thermostats, electronic switches, cameras, faultdetection devices, estimation devices or the like. Any number of devicesthat can be electrically coupled (via wireless channel or wired channel)to system 100 and/or that can otherwise receive inputs and/or provideoutputs associated with operation of the devices or other componentsbeing monitored by the devices can be or be a part of devices 106, 108,109, 110, 112.

FCSQOSC device 102 can be a control device that includes a repositoryfor information about devices 106, 108, 109, 110, 112. For example,FCSQOSC device 102 can store a table or other database that includes theidentity of one or more of devices 106, 108, 109, 110, 112 andcorresponding functional classifications for the particular device forwhich the identity is stored. In some embodiments, FCSQOSC device 102can also determine security control information and/or QoS controlinformation such as specific security and/or QoS protocols for treatmentof data generated by one or more of devices 106, 108, 109, 110, 112. Byway of example, but not limitation, security control information caninclude an indicator of a particular security protocol to apply to datagenerated by a particular device. For example, the security protocol canindicate that encryption (or a first type of encryption) is to beapplied to data from a first one of devices 106, 108, 109, 110, 112while no encryption (or a second type of encryption) is to be applied todata from a second one of devices 106, 108, 109, 110, 112. The differenttypes of encryption can be associated with different resultant securitylevels and/or with complexity in decryption, for example. As such, thelevel of security that FCSQOSC device 102 determined should be appliedto data of a particular device varies from device to device. Similarly,the QoS control information can be indicative of factors such as adesired maximum latency, minimum throughput, maximum bit error rateand/or whether forward error correction is to be employed for datagenerated by a device.

In some embodiments, controller device 114 can receive security controlinformation and/or QoS control information from FCSQOSC device 102. Insome embodiments, controller device 114 can access the security controlinformation and/or QoS control information albeit such information maynot be transmitted from FCSQOSC device 102. For example, the securitycontrol information and/or the QoS control information can be stored atFCSQOSC device 102 and accessed by controller device 114. As anotherexample, FCSQOSC device 102 can store security control informationand/or QoS control information at a repository accessible by controllerdevice 114 at a location other than FCSQOSC device 102. In someembodiments, FCSQOSC device 102 transmits or provides access tocontroller device 114 of the identity and/or functional classificationof one or more of devices 106, 108, 109, 110, 112. Controller device 114can then determine security control information and/or QoS controlinformation for the devices for which controller device 114 receivedand/or accessed identity and/or functional classification informationabout one or more of devices 106, 108, 109, 110, 112. In variousembodiments, either of FCSQOSC device 102 and/or controller device 114can determine one or more of security control information and/or QoScontrol information for one or more of devices 106, 108, 109, 110, 112.

In the embodiments described herein, the security control informationand/or the QoS control information determination is based on thefunctional classification assigned to a particular one of devices 106,108, 109, 110, 112. Functional classification device 104 can determineand assign the functional classification for each (or, in otherembodiments, one or more) of devices 106, 108, 109, 110, 112 based on anumber of different factors. For example, in one embodiment, functionalclassification device 104 can determine a functional classification forany one of devices 106, 108, 109, 110, 112 based on business logicindicative of the operation of one or more of devices 106, 108, 109,110, 112, based on data generated by one or more of 106, 108, 109, 110,112 and/or based on the level of criticality of the potential impact toa physical environment if there is a failure of one or more of devices106, 108, 109, 110, 112 to perform the function of the device. Forexample, if the potential impact to the physical environment is a threatto life safety, the functional classification device 104 assigns ahigher functional classification for the device than if the potentialimpact to the physical environment is a threat to property.

Embodiments of structure and/or functionality of devices 106, 108, 109,110, 112, FCSQOSC device 102, functional classification device 104 andcontroller device 114 along with system 100 will be described in greaterdetail with reference to FIGS. 3-14. Repetitive description of likeelements employed in other embodiments described herein is omitted forsake of brevity.

FIG. 3 illustrates an example block diagram of the functionalclassification component of FIG. 1 that can facilitate QoS and securityvia functional classification of devices in M2M networks in accordancewith one or more embodiments. As shown, functional classificationcomponent 104 can include communication component 300, functionalclassification determination component 302, memory 304, processor 306and/or data storage 308. In some embodiments, one or more ofcommunication component 300, functional classification determinationcomponent 302, memory 304, processor 306 and/or data storage 308 can beelectrically and/or communicatively coupled to one another to performone or more functions of functional classification component 104.

Communication component 300 can transmit and/or receive informationabout and/or for determining functional classifications of one or moredevices (e.g., one or more of devices 106, 108, 109, 110, 112). Forexample, in one embodiment, communication component 300 can receivebusiness logic information from one or more devices that describesinputs to the device, outputs from the device and/or the functionalityof the device. The functionality of the device can include, but is notlimited to, the operation performed by the device (e.g., sensing a waterplant, detecting whether a door is opened, measuring the temperature inan environment) and/or the operation performed by the device in responseto information detected about the environment (e.g., generate andtransmit a message informing a security system that a door has beenopened for longer than the authorized time, generate and transmit amessage informing a fault detection system that water leakage isdetected at a power plant, generate and transmit a message to a heatingventilation and air conditioning control system that a temperature in amonitored environment has exceeded the authorized temperature and toinitiate cooling of the environment). Any number of different functionsof the device can be described as business logic.

Communication component 300 can also receive information indicative ofdevice data generated by or otherwise transmitted from the device.Communication component 300 can also receive information indicative ofthe potential impact of failure of a device to perform one or more ofthe functions identified via the business logic of the device.

In various embodiments, communication component 300 can transmitfunctional classification information to a device and/or FCSQOSC device102 in a network in which the device is located.

Functional classification determination component 302 can determineand/or assign a functional classification for one or more devices in anM2M network. For example, with reference to FIGS. 1 and 3, functionalclassification determination component 302 can assign a functionalclassification to each (or one or more) of devices 106, 108, 109. 110,112. In some embodiments, the functional classification can be based ona combination of the business logic describing the function/operation ofthe device, the data generated by the device and the potential impact offailure of the device to perform the function. Because devices of thesame type can perform different functions, functional classificationdetermination component 302 can evaluate the specific function performedby the device as opposed to the type of the device itself in order todetermine the functional classification.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example diagram of a functional classificationprocess performed by the functional classification device of FIG. 3 fora device in accordance with one or more embodiments. To identify afunctional classification for a device, functional classificationdetermination device 302 can evaluate a number of factors. As shown inFIG. 4, functional classification device can employ a process thatevaluates a combination of business logic associated with a device,device data generated by the device and potential impact of failure ofthe device to determine a functional classification for the device. Asshown, functional classification determination device 302 can combinethe three types of information (e.g., business logic information, devicedata information and potential impact information) to determine anoverall functional classification for the device in some embodiments. Inother embodiments, functional classification determination device 302can select any of the three types of information (or any combination oftwo types of information) and determine a functional classification forthe corresponding device based on the evaluated information.

In some embodiments, functional classification determination device 302can weigh each of the three factors equally. In other embodiments,functional classification determination device 302 can weigh differentfactors differently. For example, potential impact of failure of thedevice can be associated with a larger weight than device data. Anynumber of configurations is possible and functional classificationdetermination device 302 can be programmed and/or re-programmed orconfigured to generate different weightings from time to time. Thefunctional classification can be employed by FCSQOSC device 102 and/orcontroller device 114 to perform security control and/or QoS control forthe device for which the functional classification is generated.

With reference to FIGS. 1 and 4, In one embodiment, functionalclassification device 104 can receive and/or determine each of (or, insome embodiments, one or more of) business logic information, devicedata information and/or potential impact of device failure for devices106, 108, 109. 110, 112 to determine the functional classifications ofdevices 106, 108, 109. 110, 112. In some embodiments, business logicinformation can include, but is not limited to, rules that defineparticular actions to be performed by devices 106, 108, 109, 110, 112.In some embodiments, business logic information can include one or morerules regarding how a device functions based on another device. Forexample, business logic can include a rule that indicates that if a dooropens, a light is turned on. In this scenario, a first device canmonitor the door and trigger a second device to activate a light switchbased on the first device detecting that the door has opened. The set ofrules that describe how a device operates (e.g., when a first definedevent happens, device A causes a second defined event to happen OR whena first defined event happens, device A transmits a signal or otherinformation to alert a device B to perform a function) can be thebusiness logic information for a particular device.

Device data information can include, but is not limited to, inputs toand/or outputs from devices 106, 108, 109, 110, 112. For example, devicedata can be an indicator that a fault has been detected. As anotherexample, device data can be an indicator of a particular numerical valueof a temperature detected in a monitored area. In some embodiments, thedevice data can include or be information indicative of the status of acomponent (e.g., a component monitored or controlled by a device). Forexample, the status can be that a door is open or closed.

Potential impact of failure of the device includes informationindicative of the potential impact to the physical area in which thedevice is located, or the physical area with which the device isassociated, if the function of the device is not performed or is notperformed properly. In some embodiments, the device is located in thearea in which the device is associated (e.g., a water sensor located inan area in which water leakage may occur). In other embodiments, thedevice is located in a first area while the area associated with thedevice is a second area distinct from the first area (e.g., a device ata control center that receives notification from the water sensor of theprevious example and shuts off a main water valve OR a device thattransmits a signal to a user when unauthorized activity is detected by acamera in a home environment). As such, the devices described herein asdevices 106, 108, 109, 110, 112 can be located within a physical regionbeing monitored or can be located in a region distinct from a regionbeing monitored or controlled by another device.

In some embodiments, potential impact of failure includes informationindicative of the potential impact if the device is manipulated suchthat the function is not performed and/or is not performed properly.However, potential impact of failure can also include the potentialimpact of failure or improper operation caused by any number of reasonsincluding, but not limited to, expiration of life of the device, devicefault or malfunction or the like. As shown in FIG. 4, the functionalclassification can be employed to determine security controls and/or QoScontrols for a particular device. For example, FCSQOSC device 102 and/orcontroller device 114 can assign security control information and/or QoScontrol information to a device based on the functional classificationassigned by functional classification component 104. By way of example,but not limitation, a defined maximum bit error rate, maximum latencyand/or minimum throughput can be associated with data generated by adevice. The particular defined maximum bit error rate, maximum latencyand/or minimum throughput selected can be a function of the functionalclassification determined for the device.

FIG. 5 illustrates an example diagram of functional classificationlevels assigned by the functional classification device of FIG. 3 andcorresponding potential impacts of failure of the functions of devicesin accordance with one or more embodiments described herein. The levelof criticality of the potential impact of failure can vary by device. Assuch, the functional classification is indicative of the specific impactof failure for the specific device. In this regard, notwithstanding twodevices may have the same function, the environments in which thefunctions are performed could lead to drastically different resultsshould the device have a malfunction and not perform its function (anddo so properly).

As shown in FIG. 5, the functional classification assigned to a devicecan be non-sensitive, sensitive, critical or life safety. The functionalclassifications can exist on a spectrum with non-sensitive being theleast serious functional classification (and therefore receiving thelowest level of security and/or QoS) and with life safety being the mostserious functional classification (and therefore receiving the highestlevel of security and/or QoS). Any number of other functionalclassifications can be added from time to time as device functionalityevolves.

In one example, a device can be classified as non-sensitive device fordevices in which function failure is associated with no serious physicalimpact to the physical environment that the device is monitoring and/orin which the device is located. Cases of minor inconvenience withmalfunction can be associated with the non-sensitive functionalclassification. An example would be classification of a sensor thatshould generate a signal if there is mail in a mailbox.

In another embodiment, failure of a function to occur can be associatedwith negative impacts in the real world monitored by the device and/orin which the device is located. For example, failure of a switch thatshould turn on a room light when a room door opens during a time that isassociated with non-daylight hours can be classified as a sensitivedevice.

In another embodiment, failure of a function to occur can be associatedwith loss or disruption within the physical environment in which thedevice is located. By way of example, but not limitation, the device canbe a thermostat or water sensor and if the sensor detects a water leak,the business logic can indicate that the functionality of the watersensor is to shut off the main valve. If the water sensor main valveshut off function did not operate properly (e.g., if the message to shutoff the main valve was not sent by the water sensor), there would beproperty damage and loss caused by the leaking water. In this case inwhich a device that fails to function according to the business logiccauses loss and/or damage, the functional classification for suchfunction is critical. Another example would be a sensor that fails togenerate an alarm in the case of property invasion.

In another embodiment, if failure of a device to perform according tothe business logic for the device leads to personal or public safetyrisk, the functional classification for the device can be the lifesafety functional classification. For example, if a defibrillator hadbusiness logic that indicated the defibrillator was to activate upondetection of a particular pattern of heart activity, and failed to doso, the human served by the defibrillator would have risk to personalhealth. As such, the function served by the defibrillator of outputtingshock waves to cause heart activity or to regulate heart activity iswithin the life safety functional classification.

FIGS. 6-9 illustrate examples of diagrams detailing functions of devicesperforming in different environments and corresponding impacts offailure to perform device function in accordance with one or moreembodiments described herein. In FIGS. 6 and 7, diagrams illustrateexamples of the same device supporting different functions. For example,the function shown in FIG. 6 can be driving performance analysis by auser associated with the connected car. By contrast, the function shownin FIG. 7 can be automated collision avoidance. Accordingly, albeit theenvironment is the same (e.g., connected car environment), the potentialimpact of failure of the function, the business logic and the devicedata differ significantly as is described in further detail below withreference to FIGS. 6 and 7.

As shown in FIG. 6, driving performance analysis includes the functionsof bumper radar, throttle and braking sensors, and transmitting suchinformation from the sensors to a central node and communicationnetwork. Driving adjustments are then made and better performance canresult. In this case, business logic, device data and potential impactof failure can result in classification by functional classificationdevice 104 of a sensitive functional classification.

As shown in FIG. 7, automated collision avoidance includes the functionsof bumper radar, throttle and braking sensors, and transmitting suchinformation from the sensors to a central node and communicationnetwork. The information is then analyzed to determine a likelihood ofcollision and possible next steps for collision avoidance. The automatedthrottle and braking sensors can then activate to throttle or brake andcollision can be avoided. In this case, business logic, device data andpotential impact of failure can result in classification by functionalclassification device 104 of a life safety functional classification.

FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate scenarios in which functional classificationscan necessitate different security controls for the data generated bydifferent devices. Turning first to FIG. 8, a sensor that senses andreports temperature in a power plant is shown. Based on the reportedtemperature, a cooling system adjusts plant operating temperature basedon defined thresholds and determines whether plant operations are in thenormal operation range or in the abnormal (e.g., meltdown) operationrange. Because the potential failure of the sensor can result in lifesafety impact (e.g., meltdown without warning to those working or livingnear the plant), functional classification device 104 classifies thesensor device as having the life safety functional classification. Basedon the life safety functional classification, security controls for thedata generated by the sensor can be at the highest level such that thedata generated by the sensor is protected from eavesdropping,manipulation and the like.

By contrast, shown in FIG. 9 is a sensor that controls the temperatureof a home. Accordingly, the sensors in FIGS. 8 and 9 are bothtemperature sensors but the sensor in FIG. 8 monitors and senses thetemperature of a power plant while the sensor in FIG. 9 monitors andsenses the temperature of a home. As shown in FIG. 9, the sensor sensesthe temperature in a home and outputs data to the home heatingventilation air conditions (HVAC) system. The HVAC system adjusts thetemperature in the home based on the data received and the temperatureis either maintained in a normal range or the sensor can detect that thehome is in an abnormal range. As such, in the case of failure for thesensor of FIG. 9, temperature is not controlled in the home. Frozenpipes can result, for example. Accordingly, since frozen pipes are notan impact to life safety, but can cause loss and/or damage to the home,the functional classification for such function is critical. Based onthe critical functional classification, the data of the sensor can beprotected at a level of security that is greater than that for a devicehaving a non-sensitive or sensitive functional classification but at alevel of security less than that for the device having the life safetyfunctional classification of FIG. 8.

As such, to further illustrate the need for a functional classification,the temperature sensor in the home and nuclear power plant can befurther elucidated. The device data can be the data output from thedevice. For example, for a temperature sensor, temperature sensor datacan be the device data output that can be considered in determining thefunctional classification of the device. As another example,environmental control system commands for adjusting heating/coolingsystems can be another example of device data output that can beconsidered in determining the functional classification of the device.

Putting aside the obvious differences between a home and nuclear powerplant, the temperature data by itself is not adequate for determiningthe appropriate security controls. The business logic is also the samein both cases. For example, by way of example, but not limitation, thebusiness logic can be, for example, the operations of the device. Forexample, the business logic can be that temperature sensors track andsend readings to environmental control systems. Environmental controlssystems are configured with safe operating parameters and adjust heatingand cooling systems as needed.

Accordingly, the same device data and business logic is employed.However, the potential impact of failure differs significantly. Uponfailure of the device, environment controls (e.g., heating and cooling)are not maintained.

As such, in the case associated with FIG. 9, frozen pipes and subsequentloss can result. The functional classification can therefore be criticalfor this case. By contrast, at a nuclear Power Plant, a potentialnuclear meltdown could occur if the device fails. As such, thefunctional classification for the functionality shown in FIG. 8 will belife safety.

The above example is a basic use case and represents just a singlefunction in two different networks/ecosystems. In other embodiments, M2Mnetworks/devices can include multiple functions often times withdiffering functional classifications. These multiple functions will alsopotentially be supported by the same set of devices. The M2M functionalclassification framework and the supporting security design principlesand requirements address these situations. In these instances, thesecurity controls commensurate with the highest functionalclassification would be applied.

Turning back to FIG. 3, functional classification component 104 can alsoinclude memory 304, processor 306 and data storage 310. Memory 304 canbe a computer-readable storage medium storing computer-executableinstructions and/or information for performing the functions describedherein with reference to functional classification component 104 (or acomponent of functional classification component 104). For example,memory 304 can store computer-executable instructions that can beexecuted by processor 306 to transmit and/or receive functionalclassification information for one or more devices (e.g., devices 106,108, 110); receive and/or process logic information associated with thefunctions of devices 106, 108, 110; transmit and/or receive informationindicative of the functional classification of functional classificationcomponent 104 or any number of other types of functions executed byfunctional classification component 104.

Processor 306 can process computer-readable storage mediumcomputer-executable instructions to perform one or more of the functionsdescribed herein with reference to functional classification component104 (or a component of functional classification component 104).

Data storage 308 can store information indicative of functionalclassification types available for assignment to devices and/or one ormore criteria for assigning a particular functional classification. Datastorage 308 can also store information indicative of one or morefunctional classifications for one or more devices.

FIG. 10 illustrates an example block diagram of a device of FIG. 1 in anM2M network for which QoS and security can be facilitated via functionalclassification in accordance with one or more embodiments. FIG. 11illustrates an example block diagram of data storage of the device ofFIG. 10 in accordance with one or more embodiments. Repetitivedescription of like elements employed in other embodiments describedherein is omitted for sake of brevity.

Device 106 can include communication component 1000, device data andpotential impact of failure component 1004, logic information component1006, functional classification component 1008, device identificationcomponent 1010, data generation component 1012, memory 1014, processor1016 and/or data storage 1018. In various embodiments, communicationcomponent 1000, device data and potential impact of failure component1004, logic information component 1006, functional classificationcomponent 1008, device identification component 1010, data generationcomponent 1012, memory 1014, processor 1016 and/or data storage 1018 canbe electrically and/or communicatively coupled to one another.

Communication component 1000 can receive and/or transmit informationfrom and/or to device 106. By way of example, but not limitation,communication component 1000 can transmit information indicative ofbusiness logic, device data and/or potential impact of failure of thefunction of device 106 to functional classification device 104.Communication component 1000 can receive information indicative of afunctional classification of device 106 assigned by functionalclassification device 104 in some embodiments. In some embodiments,communication component 1000 can transmit data generated by device 106.The data can be tagged or otherwise annotated based on an assignedsecurity control and/or QoS control resultant from the functionalclassification of device 106.

In various embodiments, device 106 can have direct connectivity with anM2M network and/or connect to the M2M network by employing a gateway asa network proxy. In the first embodiment, device 106 can obtain directconnectivity to the M2M network via an access network. Device 106 canperform one or more procedures such as registration, authentication,authorization, management and/or provisioning with the network. In someembodiments, device 106 can provide service to other devices (e.g.,legacy devices) connected to devices that are hidden from the M2Mnetwork.

In the second embodiment, device 106 can access the M2M networkemploying a gateway as a network proxy. For example, the gateway can beFCSQOSC device 102.

FCSQOSC device 102 can act as a proxy for the network for device 102.Examples of procedures that can be proxied include, but are not limitedto, authentication, authorization, management, and/or provisioning. Inthis embodiment, an M2M area network can provide connectivity betweendevice 106 and FCSQOSC device 102. Examples of M2M area networksinclude, but are not limited to, personal area network technologies suchas IEEE 802.15.1 [i.3], Zigbee, Bluetooth, IETF ROLL, ISA100.11a, etc orlocal networks such as PLC, M-BUS, Wireless M-BUS and KNX.

With reference to FIG. 10, device data and potential impact of failurecomponent 1004 can store, update and/or process information indicativeof the type of data input and/or output to and/or from device 106.Device data and potential impact of failure component 1004 can alsostore, update and/or process information indicative of the potentialimpact of failure of device 106. For example, in some embodiments, thepotential impact of failure can be pre-programmed in device 106. By wayof example, but not limitation, potential impact of failure can includewater damage if device 106 is a water sensor, or frozen pipes if device106 is a temperature sensor.

Logic information component 1006 can store, update and/or processinformation indicative of the business logic of device 106. The businesslogic can include rules and/or instructions for operations of device106. By way of example, but not limitation, business logic can includeinformation regarding the manner of operation of device 106 in numerousdifferent circumstances including, but not limited to, manner ofoperation based on inputs from other devices and/or manner of operationbased on events sensed, detected, measured or otherwise known ordetermined by device 106.

Functional classification component 1008 can receive and/or storeinformation from functional classification device 104 indicative of thefunctional classification assigned to device 104. Device identificationcomponent 1010 can include information indicative of the identity ofdevice 106. Device identification component 1010 can include serialnumber, device identification number or any other information foridentifying device 106.

Data generation component 1012 can generate data to be transmitted fromdevice 106. By way of example, but not limitation, data generationcomponent 1012 can generate data about information or events sensed,detected and/or measured by device 106.

Memory 1014 can be a computer-readable storage medium storingcomputer-executable instructions and/or information for performing thefunctions described herein with reference to device 106 (or a componentof device 106). For example, memory 1014 can store computer-executableinstructions that can be executed by processor 1016 to transmit and/orreceive information about events sensed or detected or measured and/ortransmit, receive and/or process information indicative of the functionof device 106; logic information associated with the functions of device106 or the like.

Processor 1016 can process computer-readable storage mediumcomputer-executable instructions to perform one or more of the functionsdescribed herein with reference to device 106 (or a component of device106).

FIG. 11 illustrates an example block diagram of data storage of thedevice of FIG. 10 in accordance with one or more embodiments. Repetitivedescription of like elements employed in other embodiments describedherein is omitted for sake of brevity.

Data storage 1018 can be configured to store information accessed,received, processed and/or displayed by device 106 (or a component ofdevice 106). For example, as shown in FIG. 11, data storage 1018 canstore business logic information 1102 associated with the functions ofdevice 106; data identification information 1104 including informationidentifying device 106; potential impact information 1106 includinginformation such as whether a failure of device 106 will result inpotential impact to life safety or some other impact to a physicalenvironment in which device 106 is located or with which device 106 isassociated; potential impact classification information 1108 includinginformation indicative of a level of functional classification of device106 based on the potential impact information 1106; functionalclassification information 1110 includes information indicative of thefunctional classification assigned to device 106 based on the functionof device 106.

An embodiment of FCSQOSC device 102 can be described in greater detailwith reference to FIGS. 12 and 13. FIG. 12 illustrates an example blockdiagram of the functional classification security and quality of servicecontrol (FCSQOSC) device of FIG. 1 that can facilitate QoS and securityvia functional classification of devices in the M2M network of FIG. 1 inaccordance with one or more embodiments. FIG. 13 illustrates an exampleblock diagram of data storage of the FCSQOSC device of FIG. 12 inaccordance with one or more embodiments. Repetitive description of likeelements employed in other embodiments described herein is omitted forsake of brevity.

As shown, FCSQOSC device 102 can include communication component 1200,device presence component 1202, functional classification and deviceidentification recordation component 1204, security informationcomponent 1206, QoS information component 1208, memory 1210, processor1212 and/or data storage 1214. In various embodiments, one or more ofcommunication component 1200, device presence component 1202, functionalclassification and device identification recordation component 1204,security information component 1206, QoS information component 1208,memory 1210, processor 1212 and/or data storage 1214 can be electricallyand/or communicatively coupled to one another to perform one or morefunctions of FCSQOSC device 102.

With reference to FIGS. 1 and 12, communication component 1200 cantransmit and/or receive information from and/or at FCSQOSC device 102.For example, in one embodiment, communication component 1200 can receiveinformation indicative of the identity and/or functional classificationassigned to a device (e.g., device 106) in or entering a network such asan M2M network with which FCSQOSC device 102 is associated.Communication component 1200 can transmit information indicative of theidentity and/or functional classification of a device to controllerdevice 114 to facilitate controller device 114 determining and/orapplying security control and/or QoS control to the device. In someembodiments, FCSQOSC device 102 can transmit the security and/or QoScontrol information about the device to controller device 114.

Device presence component 1202 can process information indicating that anew device has entered the network. Functional classification and deviceidentification recordation component 1204 can record/store informationindicative of the identity and/or functional classification of a device.In some embodiments, functional classification and device identificationrecordation component 1204 can initiate storage of the information at alocation remote from FCSQOSC device 102 that can be retrieved by FCSQOSCdevice 102 and/or controller device 114 over a network.

Security information component 1206 can generate information indicativeof a security control (e.g., security protocol, manner of handlingsecurity for the data generated by a device) for a particular device. Insome embodiments, security information component 1206 can transmit tocontroller device 114 one or more types of security information thatcontroller device 114 can utilize to tag data from the device and/orestablish or setup encryption or other manner of security protocols sothat the device data is secured at desired level.

QoS information component 1208 can generate information indicative of aQoS control (e.g., QoS latency, throughput and/or reliability protocol,manner of handling QoS for the data generated by a device) for aparticular device. In some embodiments, QoS information component 1208can transmit to controller device 114 one or more types of QoSinformation that controller device 114 can utilize to tag data from thedevice and/or establish or setup QoS or other manner of QoS protocols sothat the device data is secured at desired level.

Memory 1210 can be a computer-readable storage medium storingcomputer-executable instructions and/or information for performing thefunctions described herein with reference to FCSQOSC device 102 (or acomponent of FCSQOSC device 102). For example, memory 1210 can storecomputer-executable instructions that can be executed by processor 1212to receive and/or process information indicative of the presence,identity and/or functional classification of a device in the network,transmit or initiate transmission of information to one or morecontrollers in the network about the functional classification of adevice for QoS and/or security provisioning facilitating by thecontroller, generate information associated with security for datagenerated by the device, generate information associated with QoS fordata generated by the device or any number of other types of functionsexecuted by FCSQOSC device 102.

Processor 1212 can process computer-readable storage mediumcomputer-executable instructions to perform one or more of the functionsdescribed herein with reference to FCSQOSC device 102 (or a component ofFCSQOSC device 102).

FIG. 13 illustrates an example block diagram of data storage of theFCSQOSC device of FIG. 12 in accordance with one or more embodiments.Repetitive description of like elements employed in other embodimentsdescribed herein is omitted for sake of brevity.

Data storage 1214 can be configured to store information accessed,received, processed and/or displayed by FCSQOSC device 102 (or acomponent of FCSQOSC device 102). For example, as shown in FIG. 13, datastorage 1214 can store: device presence information 1302 includinginformation indicative of a time/day in which a device is present in theM2M network; device identity information 1304 including informationindicative of an identity of a device in the network; device functionalclassification information 1306 including information indicative of afunctional classification assigned to a particular device (in someembodiments, as reported by the device to FCSQOSC device 102); deviceQoS information 1308 including information regarding one or more aspectsof QoS associated with a device (in some embodiments, derived ordetermined based on the functional classification of the device); and/ordevice security information 1310 including information regarding one ormore aspects of security associated with a device (in some embodiments,derived or determined based on the functional classification of thedevice).

FIG. 14 illustrates an example block diagram of the controller of FIG. 1that can facilitate QoS and security via functional classification ofdevices in M2M networks in accordance with one or more embodiments.Repetitive description of like elements employed in other embodimentsdescribed herein is omitted for sake of brevity.

Controller device 114 can include communication component 1400, devicedata tagging component 1404, security component 1406, QoS component1408, memory 1410, processor 1412 and/or data storage 1414. In variousembodiments, communication component 1400, device data tagging component1404, security component 1406, QoS component 1408, memory 1410,processor 1412 and/or data storage 1414 can be electrically and/orcommunicatively coupled to one another to perform one or more functionsof controller device 114.

Communication component 1400 can receive information indicative of theidentity and/or functional classification of a device. Communicationcomponent 1400 can transmit and/or receive information indicative of thesecurity control and/or QoS control for the data for a particulardevice. For example, in one embodiment, communication component 1400 canreceive, from FCSQOSC device 102, information indicative of the securitycontrol and/or QoS control for data for a particular device. As anotherexample, communication component 1400 can transmit security controland/or QoS control information to one or more other components of theM2M network so that such components will apply an appropriate level ofsecurity and/or QoS to the data for the device.

Device data tagging component 1404 can generate one or more differenttags to describe the security and/or QoS with which device data shouldbe processed. The tag can be applied to the data and forwarded alongwith data through the M2M network so as to inform other networkcomponents of the manner of handling the data.

Security component 1406 can generate information assigning a securityprotocol or security control information to a particular device. QoScomponent 1408 can generate information assigning a QoS protocol or QoScontrol information to a particular device.

Accordingly, controller device 114 can automatically configuredownstream switches to perform certain levels of QoS with respect toinformation from certain devices with particular functionalclassification and/or treat certain information as having differentlevels of security. As such, FCSQOSC device 102 notification ofcontroller device 114 can cause controller device 114 to notify the SDNto apply a certain QoS for the data generated from a particular device.An example of applying a particular level of QoS could be to tag theinformation with the functional classification information and thentreat accordingly.

Memory 1410 can be a computer-readable storage medium storingcomputer-executable instructions and/or information for performing thefunctions described herein with reference to controller device 114. Forexample, functions can include assignment of security and/or QoSprotocols to a device or device data.

Processor 1412 can process computer-readable storage mediumcomputer-executable instructions to perform one or more of the functionsdescribed herein with reference to controller device 114 (or a componentof controller device 114).

Data storage 1414 can store information indicative of security protocolsand/or QoS protocols available in the network and/or information fortagging one or more different devices with one or more differentsecurity and/or QoS tags.

FIG. 15 illustrates an example schematic diagram of the provisioning ofsecurity and QoS in the M2M network of FIG. 1 in accordance with one ormore embodiments described herein. Repetitive description of likeelements employed in other embodiments described herein is omitted forsake of brevity.

As shown, devices connect to and/or authenticate with a network device(e.g., network device 1500). In some embodiments, networkconnection/authentication device 1500 can be included as a part ofFCSQOSC device 102. As shown, in some embodiments, the same type ofdevice can have two different functional classifications. For example,devices 106 and 1504 are the same device but device 106 is classifiedwith the life safety functional classification while device 1504 isclassified with the critical functional classification. The devicesshown in FIG. 15 have been classified by a functional classificationdevice such as functional classification device 104 of FIG. 3.

Upon entering M2M network 200, devices 106, 108, 109, 110, 112, 1502,1504, 1506, 1508, 1510, 1512, 1514 register with FCSQOSC device 102.During or before or after registration at M2M network 200, devices 106,108, 109, 110, 112, 1502, 1504, 1506, 1508, 1510, 1512, 1514 transmit toFCSQOSC device 102 information indicative of the identity of therespective device and the assigned functional classification of therespective device. FCSQOSC device 102 can be the control center forsecurity and QoS and/or can be responsible for dynamically assigningsecurity and QoS controls throughout M2M network 200 based on the deviceand the assigned functional classification of the device. In someembodiments, FCSQOSC device 102 can store information indicative of theidentity and the functional classification of a particular deviceregistered with FCSQOSC device 102.

As one or more of devices 106, 108, 109, 110, 112, 1502, 1504, 1506,1508, 1510, 1512, 1514 connect and are authenticated for entry to thenetwork, network connection/authentication device 1500 can notifyFCSQOSC device 102 that the device is connected and/or authenticated.Devices 106, 108, 109, 110, 112, 1502, 1504, 1506, 1508, 1510, 1512,1514 can be registered with FCSQOSC device 102 and a flag can be setindicating the functional classification for the device in someembodiments. In other embodiments, any number of different type ofinformation can be stored in or accessed by FCSQOSC device 102 regardingthe type of functional classification associated with a particulardevice. In one embodiment, FCSQOSC device 102 can notify one or moredifferent network orchestration tools (e.g., controller device 114) ofthe identity and functional classification of the devices registeredwith FCSQOSC device 102.

In one embodiment, FCSQOSC device 102 can determine security controlinformation and/or QoS control information for the manner in whichcontroller device 114 should handle the data generated by the device,based on the functional classification of the device. Data 1516 can begenerated by devices having a life safety functional classification,data 1518 can be generated by devices having a critical functionalclassification, data 1520 can be generated by devices having a sensitivefunctional classification and data 1522 can be generated by deviceshaving a non-sensitive functional classification.

Controller device 114 can then apply security controls and/or QoScontrols to the data generated by the device based on the functionalclassification of the device. As such, data 1516, 1518, 1520, 1522 canbe handled according to the respective security controls and/or QoScontrols for the particular functional classification. In someembodiments, controller device 114 tags the data generated by the devicewith a tag indicating the functional classification and/or securitycontrols and/or QoS controls for the device so that devices that processthe data are aware of the manner in which the data from the deviceshould be handled.

In other embodiments, controller device 114 receives and/or accessesidentity and functional classification information and generates thesecurity control and/or QoS control information for the particulardevice. Data 1516, 1518, 1520, 1522 is then processed in the mannerdictated by the security and/or QoS control information for thefunctional classification to which the data belongs. In someembodiments, as shown, M2M backend resources can be dedicated toparticular data to further provide QoS and/or security controlsassociated with the functional classification for the data.

FIGS. 16-20 illustrate example flowcharts of methods that facilitate QoSand security via functional classification of devices in M2M networks inaccordance with one or more embodiments. Turning first to FIG. 16, at1602, method 1600 can include receiving, by a first device (e.g., aFCSQOSC device) of devices of a network and including a processor,notification information of a presence of a second device among thedevices within the network, wherein the devices are configured tocommunicate information about events associated with respectiveoperations of the devices. The network can be an M2M network in variousembodiments. For example, FCSQOSC device 102 can receive notificationvia wireless or wired communication channel informing FCSQOSC device 102that a device (e.g., one or more of devices 106, 108, 109, 110, 112) isconnected to and, in some embodiments, authenticated with) the network.The notification can be received from the device itself and/or from anauthentication device (not shown) with which the device authenticates orany number of other devices that can determine that a device isconnected to or authenticated with the network.

At 1604, method 1600 can include generating, by the first device, firstinformation indicative of an identity of the second device and afunctional classification based on a function of the second device. Forexample, in some embodiments, the first device can receive the identityof the new device and the functional classification of the new deviceand generate information indicative of the identity and/or functionalclassification. The information can be stored at FCSQOSC device 102and/or at a location that can be accessed by FCSQOSC device 102 over anetwork to which FCSQOSC device 102 is communicatively coupled.

The functional classification of the function can be associated with alevel of criticality of failure of the second device to the physicalenvironment in which the second device is located. For example, iffailure of the second device to perform a function results in loss ofproperty, the device can be assigned the critical functionalclassification. By contrast, if the failure of the second device has noimpact on the physical world in the region in which the second device islocated, the device can be assigned the non-sensitive functionalclassification.

At 1606, method 1600 can include initiating, by the first device to acontroller device within the network, a transmission of secondinformation for association of third information indicative of thefunctional classification of the function of the second device with datagenerated by the second device. For example, FCSQOSC device 102 caninitiate transmission of information that details the identity of aparticular device and the functional classification of the device. Insome embodiments, the controller device receives the information anddetermines the security and/or QoS for data generated by the device. Inother embodiments, the FCSQOSC device 102 decides the security and/orQoS for the data generated by the device and transmits such informationto the controller device.

In some embodiments, the third information is associated with a definedQoS for the data generated by the second device. In some embodiments,the third information can be further associated with a defined level ofsecurity accorded to the data generated by the second device. By way ofexample, but not limitation, the data generated by the device can betagged or otherwise associated with the third information so as toimprove the likelihood that a controller device or other device furtherdownstream from the controller device will handle the data with theappropriate security and/or QoS.

Turning now to FIG. 17, at 1702, method 1700 can include receiving, at acontroller device in a network and including a processor, securitycontrol information based on functional classification of function of adevice within the network, wherein the network is an M2M network inwhich devices are configured to communicate information about eventsassociated with respective operations of the devices. For example, thecontroller device can receive from the FCSQOSC device 102 securitycontrol information indicative of a security protocol and/or a level ofsecurity to employ for data generated by a particular device. Thesecurity control information can be based on the functionalclassification of the device with the more extreme the impact of failureof the function the more security allotted to the device. By way ofexample, but not limitation, if a device has a life safety functionalclassification, the security control information can include encryptionof information generated by the device. By contrast, if the device has afunctional classification that is less severe than life safety (e.g.,critical, non-sensitive or sensitive), the security control informationcan indicate no encryption to be applied to the data of the device.

At 1704, method 1700 can include determining, by the controller device,a security protocol for the device based on the security controlinformation. In this embodiment, the controller device determines thesecurity protocol after receiving security protocol information fromFCSQOSC device 102.

At 1706, method 1700 can include controlling, by the controller device,processing of data from the device according to the security protocol.For example, the controller device can process the data differentlydepending on the security protocol associated with the data.

Turning now to FIG. 18, at 1802, method 1800 can include receiving, at acontroller device in a network and including a processor, QoS controlinformation based on functional classification of function of a devicewithin the network, wherein the network is an M2M network in whichdevices are configured to communicate information about eventsassociated with respective operations of the devices. The QoS controlinformation can be employed to indicate desired throughput, maximumdesired latency and/or desired reliability (e.g., maximum bit errorrate) for the data generated by the device.

At 1804, method 1800 can include determining, by the controller device,a QoS protocol for the device based on the QoS control information. At1806, method 1800 can include controlling, by the controller device,processing of data from the device according to the quality of serviceprotocol.

Turning now to FIG. 19, at 1902, method 1900 can include generating, bya first device including a processor, first information indicative of afunctional classification of a function of a second device associatedwith a network, wherein the network in which devices are configured tocommunicate information about events associated with respectiveoperations of the devices. At 1904, method 1900 can include generating,by the first device, security control information for the second devicebased on the first information indicative of a functional classificationof the function of the second device.

Turning now to FIG. 20, at 2002, method 2000 can include determininglogic information associated with a function of a device of a network,wherein the devices are configured to communicate information aboutevents associated with operations of the device. The device can be anynumber of different types of devices that can be communicatively coupledwithin an M2M network including, but not limited to, a connected cardevice, a device within a digital home network, a healthcare device, asmart grid, any of a number of different types of sensors (e.g.,temperature or water sensor) or the like.

In some embodiments, the functions include a first function for whichthe potential impact of failure of the device to perform the function isa first level and a second function for which the potential impact offailure of the device to perform the function is a second level. In thisembodiment, the first level has a greater level of criticality than thesecond level, and the security control information comprisesdetermination of first security control information associated with thefirst function and determination of second security control informationassociated with the second function. By way of example, but notlimitation, the first security control information can be associatedwith a higher level of security than a level of security for the secondsecurity control information.

At 2004, method 2000 can include determining a potential impact offailure of the device to perform the function. While not shown in method2000, in some embodiments, method 2000 can also include determining dataassociated with the device, wherein the determining the security controlinformation is further based on the data.

At 2006, method 2000 can include determining security controlinformation for the device based on the logic information and thepotential impact of the failure. In some embodiments, the potentialimpact includes physical impact in an environment in which the device islocated. For example, the potential impact can be loss (e.g., propertyor financial loss) in an environment in which the device is located. Asanother example, the potential impact can be impact to personal orpublic safety in an environment in which the device is located. Thesecurity control information can include information detailing how tohandle the security of the data generated by the device.

FIG. 21 illustrates a block diagram of a computer operable to facilitateQoS and security via functional classification of devices in M2Mnetworks in accordance with one or more embodiments. For example, insome embodiments, the computer can be or be included within any numberof components described herein including, but not limited to, FCSQOSCdevice 102 (or any components thereof), controller device 114 (or anycomponents thereof) and/or devices 106, 108, 109, 110, 112 (or anycomponents thereof).

In order to provide additional context for various embodiments describedherein, FIG. 21 and the following discussion are intended to provide abrief, general description of a suitable computing environment 2100 inwhich the various embodiments of the embodiment described herein can beimplemented. While the embodiments have been described above in thegeneral context of computer-executable instructions that can run on oneor more computers, those skilled in the art will recognize that theembodiments can be also implemented in combination with other programmodules and/or as a combination of hardware and software.

Generally, program modules include routines, programs, components, datastructures, etc., that perform particular tasks or implement particularabstract data types. Moreover, those skilled in the art will appreciatethat the inventive methods can be practiced with other computer systemconfigurations, including single-processor or multiprocessor computersystems, minicomputers, mainframe computers, as well as personalcomputers, hand-held computing devices, microprocessor-based orprogrammable consumer electronics, and the like, each of which can beoperatively coupled to one or more associated devices.

The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” and so forth, as used in theclaims, unless otherwise clear by context, is for clarity only anddoesn't otherwise indicate or imply any order in time. For instance, “afirst determination,” “a second determination,” and “a thirddetermination,” does not indicate or imply that the first determinationis to be made before the second determination, or vice versa, etc.

The illustrated embodiments of the embodiments herein can be alsopracticed in distributed computing environments where certain tasks areperformed by remote processing devices that are linked through acommunications network. In a distributed computing environment, programmodules can be located in both local and remote memory storage devices.

Computing devices typically include a variety of media, which caninclude computer-readable storage media and/or communications media,which two terms are used herein differently from one another as follows.Computer-readable storage media can be any available storage media thatcan be accessed by the computer and includes both volatile andnonvolatile media, removable and non-removable media. By way of example,and not limitation, computer-readable storage media can be implementedin connection with any method or technology for storage of informationsuch as computer-readable instructions, program modules, structured dataor unstructured data. Tangible and/or non-transitory computer-readablestorage media can include, but are not limited to, random access memory(RAM), read only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable readonly memory (EEPROM), flash memory or other memory technology, compactdisk read only memory (CD-ROM), digital versatile disk (DVD) or otheroptical disk storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic diskstorage, other magnetic storage devices and/or other media that can beused to store desired information. Computer-readable storage media canbe accessed by one or more local or remote computing devices, e.g., viaaccess requests, queries or other data retrieval protocols, for avariety of operations with respect to the information stored by themedium.

In this regard, the term “tangible” herein as applied to storage, memoryor computer-readable media, is to be understood to exclude onlypropagating intangible signals per se as a modifier and does notrelinquish coverage of all standard storage, memory or computer-readablemedia that are not only propagating intangible signals per se.

In this regard, the term “non-transitory” herein as applied to storage,memory or computer-readable media, is to be understood to exclude onlypropagating transitory signals per se as a modifier and does notrelinquish coverage of all standard storage, memory or computer-readablemedia that are not only propagating transitory signals per se.

Communications media typically embody computer-readable instructions,data structures, program modules or other structured or unstructureddata in a data signal such as a modulated data signal, e.g., a channelwave or other transport mechanism, and includes any information deliveryor transport media. The term “modulated data signal” or signals refersto a signal that has one or more of its characteristics set or changedin such a manner as to encode information in one or more signals. By wayof example, and not limitation, communication media include wired media,such as a wired network or direct-wired connection, and wireless mediasuch as acoustic, RF, infrared and other wireless media.

With reference again to FIG. 21, the example environment 2100 forimplementing various embodiments of the embodiments described hereinincludes a computer 2102, the computer 2102 including a processing unit2104, a system memory 2106 and a system bus 2108. The system bus 2108couples system components including, but not limited to, the systemmemory 2106 to the processing unit 2104. The processing unit 2104 can beany of various commercially available processors. Dual microprocessorsand other multi-processor architectures can also be employed as theprocessing unit 2104.

The system bus 2108 can be any of several types of bus structure thatcan further interconnect to a memory bus (with or without a memorycontroller), a peripheral bus, and a local bus using any of a variety ofcommercially available bus architectures. The system memory 2106includes ROM 2110 and RAM 2112. A basic input/output system (BIOS) canbe stored in a non-volatile memory such as ROM, erasable programmableread only memory (EPROM), EEPROM, which BIOS contains the basic routinesthat help to transfer information between elements within the computer2102, such as during startup. The RAM 2112 can also include a high-speedRAM such as static RAM for caching data.

The computer 2102 further includes an internal hard disk drive (HDD)2113 (e.g., EIDE, SATA), which internal hard disk drive 2113 can also beconfigured for external use in a suitable chassis (not shown), amagnetic floppy disk drive (FDD) 2116, (e.g., to read from or write to aremovable diskette 2118) and an optical disk drive 2120, (e.g., readinga CD-ROM disk 2122 or, to read from or write to other high capacityoptical media such as the DVD). The hard disk drive 2114, magnetic diskdrive 2116 and optical disk drive 2120 can be connected to the systembus 2108 by a hard disk drive interface 2124, a magnetic disk driveinterface 2126 and an optical drive interface, respectively. Theinterface 2124 for external drive implementations includes at least oneor both of Universal Serial Bus (USB) and Institute of Electrical andElectronics Engineers (IEEE) 1394 interface technologies. Other externaldrive connection technologies are within contemplation of theembodiments described herein.

The drives and their associated computer-readable storage media providenonvolatile storage of data, data structures, computer-executableinstructions, and so forth. For the computer 2102, the drives andstorage media accommodate the storage of any data in a suitable digitalformat. Although the description of computer-readable storage mediaabove refers to a hard disk drive (HDD), a removable magnetic diskette,and a removable optical media such as a CD or DVD, it should beappreciated by those skilled in the art that other types of storagemedia which are readable by a computer, such as zip drives, magneticcassettes, flash memory cards, cartridges, and the like, can also beused in the example operating environment, and further, that any suchstorage media can contain computer-executable instructions forperforming the methods described herein.

A number of program modules can be stored in the drives and RAM 2112,including an operating system 2130, one or more application programs2132, other program modules 2134 and program data 2136. All or portionsof the operating system, applications, modules, and/or data can also becached in the RAM 2112. The systems and methods described herein can beimplemented utilizing various commercially available operating systemsor combinations of operating systems.

A mobile device can enter commands and information into the computer2102 through one or more wired/wireless input devices, e.g., a keyboard2138 and a pointing device, such as a mouse 2140. Other input devices(not shown) can include a microphone, an infrared (IR) remote control, ajoystick, a game pad, a stylus pen, touch screen or the like. These andother input devices are often connected to the processing unit 2104through an input device interface 2142 that can be coupled to the systembus 2108, but can be connected by other interfaces, such as a parallelport, an IEEE 1394 serial port, a game port, a universal serial bus(USB) port, an IR interface, etc.

A monitor 2144 or other type of display device can be also connected tothe system bus 2108 via an interface, such as a video adapter 2146. Inaddition to the monitor 2144, a computer typically includes otherperipheral output devices (not shown), such as speakers, printers, etc.

The computer 2102 can operate in a networked environment using logicalconnections via wired and/or wireless communications to one or moreremote computers, such as a remote computer(s) 2148. The remotecomputer(s) 2148 can be a workstation, a server computer, a router, apersonal computer, portable computer, microprocessor-based entertainmentappliance, a peer device or other common network node, and typicallyincludes many or all of the elements described relative to the computer2102, although, for purposes of brevity, only a memory/storage device2150 is illustrated. The logical connections depicted includewired/wireless connectivity to a local area network (LAN) 2152 and/orlarger networks, e.g., a wide area network (WAN) 2154. Such LAN and WANnetworking environments are commonplace in offices and companies, andfacilitate enterprise-wide computer networks, such as intranets, all ofwhich can connect to a global communications network, e.g., theInternet.

When used in a LAN networking environment, the computer 2102 can beconnected to the local network 2152 through a wired and/or wirelesscommunication network interface or adapter 2156. The adapter 2156 canfacilitate wired or wireless communication to the LAN 2152, which canalso include a wireless AP disposed thereon for communicating with thewireless adapter 2156.

When used in a WAN networking environment, the computer 2102 can includea modem 2158 or can be connected to a communications server on the WAN2154 or has other means for establishing communications over the WAN2154, such as by way of the Internet. The modem 2158, which can beinternal or external and a wired or wireless device, can be connected tothe system bus 2108 via the input device interface 2142. In a networkedenvironment, program modules depicted relative to the computer 2102 orportions thereof, can be stored in the remote memory/storage device2150. It will be appreciated that the network connections shown areexample and other means of establishing a communications link betweenthe computers can be used.

The computer 2102 can be operable to communicate with any wirelessdevices or entities operatively disposed in wireless communication,e.g., a printer, scanner, desktop and/or portable computer, portabledata assistant, communications satellite, any piece of equipment orlocation associated with a wirelessly detectable tag (e.g., a kiosk,news stand, restroom), and telephone. This can include Wireless Fidelity(Wi-Fi) and BLUETOOTH® wireless technologies. Thus, the communicationcan be a defined structure as with a conventional network or simply anad hoc communication between at least two devices.

Wi-Fi can allow connection to the Internet from a couch at home, a bedin a hotel room or a conference room at work, without wires. Wi-Fi is awireless technology similar to that used in a cell phone that enablessuch devices, e.g., computers, to send and receive data indoors and out;anywhere within the range of a femto cell device. Wi-Fi networks useradio technologies called IEEE 802.11 (a, b, g, n, etc.) to providesecure, reliable, fast wireless connectivity. A Wi-Fi network can beused to connect computers to each other, to the Internet, and to wirednetworks (which can use IEEE 802.3 or Ethernet). Wi-Fi networks operatein the unlicensed 2.4 and 5 GHz radio bands, at an 11 Mbps (802.11a) or54 Mbps (802.11b) data rate, for example or with products that containboth bands (dual band), so the networks can provide real-worldperformance similar to the basic 10 Base T wired Ethernet networks usedin many offices.

The embodiments described herein can employ artificial intelligence (AI)to facilitate automating one or more features described herein. Theembodiments (e.g., in connection with automatically identifying acquiredcell sites that provide a maximum value/benefit after addition to anexisting communication network) can employ various AI-based schemes forcarrying out various embodiments thereof. Moreover, the classifier canbe employed to determine a ranking or priority of each cell site of anacquired network. A classifier is a function that maps an inputattribute vector, x=(x1, x2, x3, x4, . . . , xn), to a confidence thatthe input belongs to a class, that is, f(x)=confidence(class). Suchclassification can employ a probabilistic and/or statistical-basedanalysis (e.g., factoring into the analysis utilities and costs) toprognose or infer an action that a mobile device desires to beautomatically performed. A support vector machine (SVM) is an example ofa classifier that can be employed. The SVM operates by finding ahypersurface in the space of possible inputs, which the hypersurfaceattempts to split the triggering criteria from the non-triggeringevents. Intuitively, this makes the classification correct for testingdata that is near, but not identical to training data. Other directedand undirected model classification approaches include, e.g., naïveBayes, Bayesian networks, decision trees, neural networks, fuzzy logicmodels, and probabilistic classification models providing differentpatterns of independence can be employed. Classification as used hereinalso is inclusive of statistical regression that is utilized to developmodels of priority.

As will be readily appreciated, one or more of the embodiments canemploy classifiers that are explicitly trained (e.g., via a generictraining data) as well as implicitly trained (e.g., via observing mobiledevice behavior, operator preferences, historical information, receivingextrinsic information). For example, SVMs can be configured via alearning or training phase within a classifier constructor and featureselection module. Thus, the classifier(s) can be used to automaticallylearn and perform a number of functions, including but not limited todetermining according to a predetermined criteria which of the acquiredcell sites will benefit a maximum number of subscribers and/or which ofthe acquired cell sites will add minimum value to the existingcommunication network coverage, etc.

As employed herein, the term “processor” can refer to substantially anycomputing processing unit or device including, but not limited toincluding, single-core processors; single-processors with softwaremultithread execution capability; multi-core processors; multi-coreprocessors with software multithread execution capability; multi-coreprocessors with hardware multithread technology; parallel platforms; andparallel platforms with distributed shared memory. Additionally, aprocessor can refer to an integrated circuit, an application specificintegrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), a fieldprogrammable gate array (FPGA), a programmable logic controller (PLC), acomplex programmable logic device (CPLD), a discrete gate or transistorlogic, discrete hardware components or any combination thereof designedto perform the functions described herein. Processors can exploitnano-scale architectures such as, but not limited to, molecular andquantum-dot based transistors, switches and gates, in order to optimizespace usage or enhance performance of mobile device equipment. Aprocessor can also be implemented as a combination of computingprocessing units.

As used herein, terms such as “data storage,” “database,” andsubstantially any other information storage component relevant tooperation and functionality of a component, refer to “memorycomponents,” or entities embodied in a “memory” or components includingthe memory. It will be appreciated that the memory components orcomputer-readable storage media, described herein can be either volatilememory or nonvolatile memory or can include both volatile andnonvolatile memory.

Memory disclosed herein can include volatile memory or nonvolatilememory or can include both volatile and nonvolatile memory. By way ofillustration, and not limitation, nonvolatile memory can include readonly memory (ROM), programmable ROM (PROM), electrically programmableROM (EPROM), electrically erasable PROM (EEPROM) or flash memory.Volatile memory can include random access memory (RAM), which acts asexternal cache memory. By way of illustration and not limitation, RAM isavailable in many forms such as static RAM (SRAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM),synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), double data rate SDRAM (DDR SDRAM), enhancedSDRAM (ESDRAM), Synchlink DRAM (SLDRAM), and direct Rambus RAM (DRRAM).The memory (e.g., data storages, databases) of the embodiments areintended to include, without being limited to, these and any othersuitable types of memory.

What has been described above includes mere examples of variousembodiments. It is, of course, not possible to describe everyconceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes ofdescribing these examples, but one of ordinary skill in the art canrecognize that many further combinations and permutations of the presentembodiments are possible. Accordingly, the embodiments disclosed and/orclaimed herein are intended to embrace all such alterations,modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and scope ofthe appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes”is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term isintended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as“comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in aclaim.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method, comprising: generating, by a firstdevice of devices of a network, first information indicative of anidentity of a second device of the devices and a functionalclassification based on a function of the second device; and initiating,by the first device, a transmission of second information forassociation of third information with fourth information generated bythe second device, wherein the third information is indicative of thefunctional classification of the function of the second device.
 2. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the third information is associated with alevel of quality of service for the fourth information generated by thesecond device.
 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the level of quality ofservice for the fourth information comprises a maximum bit error ratefor the fourth information.
 4. The method of claim 2, wherein the fourthinformation generated by the second device is annotated with the thirdinformation by a controller device.
 5. The method of claim 1, whereinthe functional classification is further based on a potential impact offailure of the second device to perform the function of the seconddevice.
 6. The method of claim 5, wherein the potential impact isrelated to safety in an environment monitored by the second device. 7.The method of claim 5, wherein the potential impact is related to safetyin a physical environment in which the second device is located.
 8. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the functional classification is located on aspectrum of functional classifications that ranges from a non-sensitivedesignation to a life safety designation, and wherein the non-sensitivedesignation is provided a lowest level of quality of service of a groupof levels of quality of service and the life safety designation isprovided a highest level of quality of service of the group of thelevels of quality of service.
 9. The method of claim 1, wherein thefunctional classification is located on a spectrum of functionalclassifications that ranges from a non-sensitive designation to a lifesafety designation, and wherein the non-sensitive designation isprovided a lowest level of security of a group of levels of security andthe life safety designation is provided a highest level of security ofthe group of the levels of security.
 10. An apparatus, comprising: aprocessor; and a memory that stores executable instructions that, whenexecuted by the processor, facilitate performance of operations,comprising: determining logic information associated with a function offunctions of a connected car device of a network, wherein the connectedcar device is configured to communicate information about eventsassociated with operations of the connected car device; determining apotential impact of failure of the connected car device to perform thefunction; and determining security control information for the connectedcar device based on the logic information and the potential impact ofthe failure.
 11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the functionscomprise a first function for which the potential impact of the failureis associated with a first level of criticality and a second functionfor which the potential impact of the failure is associated with asecond level of criticality, and wherein the determining of the securitycontrol information comprises determining first security controlinformation associated with the first function and determining secondsecurity control information associated with the second function. 12.The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the first security controlinformation is associated with a higher level of security than a levelof security for the second security control information.
 13. Theapparatus of claim 10, wherein the logic information is first logicinformation, and wherein the determining the security controlinformation comprises determining a first type of encryption for fourthinformation generated by the connected car device based on the firstlogic information and the potential impact of the failure.
 14. Theapparatus of claim 13, wherein the potential impact of the failure is afirst potential impact of the failure, and wherein the operationsfurther comprise determining a second type of encryption for the fourthinformation generated by the connected car device based on second logicinformation and a second potential impact of the failure.
 15. Theapparatus of claim 10, wherein the potential impact of the failurecomprises a potential loss of life in an environment for which thefunction is performed by the connected car device.
 16. The apparatus ofclaim 10, wherein the potential impact of the failure comprises apotential change in safety in an environment for which the connected cardevice performs the function.
 17. A first device, comprising: aprocessor; and a memory that stores executable instructions that, whenexecuted by the processor, facilitate performance of operations,comprising: generating first information indicative of a functionalclassification based on a function of a second device; and initiating atransmission of second information for association of third informationwith fourth information generated by the second device, wherein thethird information is indicative of the functional classification. 18.The first device of claim 17, wherein the functional classification isassociated with a level of criticality of failure of the second deviceto perform the function.
 19. The first device of claim 17, wherein thesecond device is configured to initiate a healthcare treatment.
 20. Thefirst device of claim 17, wherein the second device is configured toinitiate a fire safety operation.